An electronic device is disclosed. In addition, various embodiments identified through the specification are available. An electronic device disclosed in the disclosure includes a connector that is connected to a docking device, a first interface module supporting a display port protocol, a second interface module supporting a UFS protocol, a third interface module supporting a USB protocol, a switch located between the connector and the first interface module and the second interface module, a processor that controls the switch, and a memory electrically connected to the processor, wherein the memory stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to control the switch such that the first interface module is connected to the connector, receive a first signal requesting a change of an interface module from the docking device through the third interface module, and control the switch such that the second interface module is connected to the connector.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An electronic device comprising: a connector configured to be connected to a docking device; a first lane and a second lane associated with data transmission based on a high-speed; a third lane associated with data transmission based on a low-speed; a first interface module supporting a display port (DP) protocol and configured to be connected to the connector through the first lane; a second interface module supporting a universal flash storage (UFS) protocol and configured to be connected to the connector through the second lane; a third interface module supporting a universal serial bus (USB) protocol and configured to be connected to the connector through the third lane; a power management module; a switch located between the connector and the first interface module and the second interface module; a processor configured to control the switch and the power management module; and a memory electrically connected to the processor, wherein the memory stores instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: in response to detecting that the docking device is connected to the connector, control the switch such that the first interface module is connected to the connector and perform data transmission with the docking device through the first lane; and in response to detecting that a first signal indicating that an addition memory including a UFS interface module is inserted into the connected docking device is received through the third interface module, control the power management module to supply power to the addition memory through the connector, and control the switch such that the second interface module is connected to the connector and perform the data transmission with the addition memory through the second lane, wherein the instructions, when the first signal is determined by the processor, cause the processor to: determine whether an insertion direction of a connector of the docking device is changed, in response to determining that the insertion direction of the connector of the docking device is changed, transmit a second signal requesting a change of a SBU lane to the docking device through the third interface module so that the docking device changes the SBU lane connected between the addition memory and the connector of the docking device.
This invention relates to an electronic device with a docking connector that supports high-speed and low-speed data transmission. The device includes a connector for connecting to a docking device, with three data lanes: two high-speed lanes and one low-speed lane. The high-speed lanes are connected to a display port (DP) interface module and a universal flash storage (UFS) interface module, while the low-speed lane connects to a universal serial bus (USB) interface module. A power management module and a switch control data routing between the connector and the interface modules. A processor executes instructions to manage these components. When the docking device is connected, the switch routes data through the DP interface module. If an external memory with a UFS interface is inserted into the docking device, the processor detects a signal via the USB interface, powers the memory, and switches data transmission to the UFS interface. The processor also checks if the docking device's connector orientation changes and requests a lane reconfiguration if needed. This system enables dynamic switching between display and storage protocols based on external device connections.
2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the connector includes a USB C-TYPE.
The invention relates to electronic devices with improved connectivity features, specifically addressing the need for standardized, high-speed data and power transfer. The device includes a connector designed to support multiple functions, such as data transmission, power delivery, and audio/video interfacing. The connector is configured to be compatible with a USB C-TYPE standard, ensuring broad compatibility with various peripherals and charging systems. This design eliminates the need for multiple ports, reducing device complexity and enhancing user convenience. The connector may also support high-speed data transfer protocols, such as USB 3.1 or Thunderbolt, enabling efficient data exchange. Additionally, the device may include power management circuitry to regulate power delivery through the connector, ensuring safe and efficient charging. The connector's reversible design allows for easy and intuitive plugging, improving user experience. The invention aims to provide a versatile, future-proof connectivity solution for electronic devices, addressing the limitations of traditional multi-port designs.
3. The electronic device of claim 2 , wherein the first lane comprises one of a TX1+/− lane and a RX1+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE or a TX2+/− lane and a RX2+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE and the second lane comprises the other one of the TX1+/− lane and the RX1+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE or the TX2+/− lane and the RX2+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE.
This invention relates to electronic devices with USB Type-C interfaces, specifically addressing signal routing and lane configuration to improve data transmission efficiency. The problem solved involves optimizing the use of differential signal pairs (TX/RX lanes) in USB Type-C connectors to enhance performance and compatibility. The invention describes an electronic device with a USB Type-C interface that includes a first lane and a second lane, where each lane is configured as either a transmit (TX) or receive (RX) pair. The first lane is assigned to one of the TX1+/− or RX1+/− pairs, while the second lane is assigned to the other of these pairs. Alternatively, the first lane may be assigned to one of the TX2+/− or RX2+/− pairs, with the second lane assigned to the remaining pair. This configuration ensures that both lanes are utilized for either transmitting or receiving data, depending on the device's role in a connection (e.g., host or peripheral). The invention improves signal integrity and reduces latency by dynamically assigning lanes based on the device's operational mode, ensuring optimal data transfer rates and compatibility with various USB Type-C devices. The solution is particularly useful in high-speed data applications where efficient lane management is critical.
4. The electronic device of claim 1 , further comprising: wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, through the third interface module, a second response signal indicating that the SBU lane has been switched in response to the second signal from the docking device; and perform an initialization process of the addition memory and perform the data transmission with the addition memory through the second lane.
The invention relates to electronic devices with enhanced docking capabilities, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing data transmission between a device and a docking station. The device includes a processor, a first interface module for communication with a docking device, a second interface module for communication with an additional memory, and a third interface module for receiving signals from the docking device. The processor executes instructions to send a first signal to the docking device to request switching of a sideband utility (SBU) lane. Upon receiving a first response signal confirming the switch, the processor performs an initialization process for the additional memory and initiates data transmission through the SBU lane. Additionally, the processor receives a second response signal indicating the SBU lane has been switched in response to a second signal from the docking device, then performs another initialization process for the additional memory and continues data transmission through the second lane. This ensures reliable and efficient data exchange between the device and the docking station, particularly when switching communication lanes. The invention improves data handling in docking scenarios by dynamically managing lane switching and initialization processes.
5. The electronic device of claim 4 , wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: perform an initialization process of the memory of the electronic device and a memory of the docking device and recognize the memory of the electronic device and the memory of the docking device as a single memory; boot a first operating system by allocating a portion of the single memory; and boot a second operating system by allocating another portion of the single memory.
6. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive, from the docking device, a third signal indicating that the addition memory including the UFS interface module is separated from the docking device through the third interface module; control the switch such that the first interface module is connected to the connector; transmit a third response signal in response to the third signal to the docking device through the third interface module; and perform data transmission with the docking device through the first lane.
This invention relates to electronic devices with modular memory expansion capabilities, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically managing data transmission when additional memory modules are connected or disconnected from a docking device. The system includes an electronic device with a processor, a first interface module, a second interface module, a third interface module, and a switch. The first interface module connects to a docking device via a first lane, while the second interface module interfaces with an internal memory. The third interface module connects to an external memory module, such as a Universal Flash Storage (UFS) module, which can be added or removed from the docking device. When the external memory is disconnected, the switch reconnects the first interface module to the docking device, ensuring uninterrupted data transmission. The processor receives a signal indicating the disconnection, controls the switch to reconfigure the connection, transmits a response signal to the docking device, and resumes data transmission through the first lane. This dynamic reconfiguration allows seamless switching between internal and external memory access, improving flexibility and reliability in modular computing environments.
7. A docking device comprising: a connector configured to be connected to an electronic device; a first interface module supporting a DP protocol and configured to be connected to the connector through a first lane; a power management module; a processor; and a switch located between the first interface module and the connector, wherein the processor is configured to: in response to detecting that the electronic device is connected to the connector, control the switch such that the first interface module is connected to the connector and perform data transmission with the electronic device through the first interface module; detect that an addition memory including a UFS interface module is inserted into the docking device while the first interface module is connected to the connector; transmit a first signal indicating that the addition memory is inserted into the docking device to the electronic device; receive a first response signal in response to the first signal from the electronic device; and control the switch such that the UFS interface module is connected to the connector and perform the data transmission with the electronic device through the UFS interface module, wherein the processor is further configured to: receive power from the electronic device and transmit the received power to the addition memory; and when a second signal requesting a change of an SBU lane is received from the electronic device, change the SBU lane connected between the addition memory and the connector.
The docking device is designed for electronic devices, addressing the need for flexible data transmission and power management when connecting external memory. The device includes a connector for interfacing with an electronic device, a first interface module supporting the DisplayPort (DP) protocol connected to the connector via a first lane, a power management module, a processor, and a switch positioned between the first interface module and the connector. The processor detects when an electronic device is connected and controls the switch to enable data transmission through the DP interface module. If additional memory with a Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interface module is inserted while the DP module is active, the processor sends a signal to the electronic device, receives a response, and switches the connection to the UFS module for data transmission. The processor also manages power delivery from the electronic device to the additional memory and can adjust the Sideband Use (SBU) lane connection between the memory and the connector upon receiving a request from the electronic device. This ensures seamless switching between different interface protocols and efficient power distribution.
8. The docking device of claim 7 , wherein the connector includes a USB C-TYPE.
A docking device is designed to provide a compact and versatile connection interface for electronic devices, particularly portable computing devices such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones. The device addresses the need for a standardized, high-speed connection that supports multiple data and power transfer protocols in a single compact form factor. Traditional docking solutions often require multiple cables or adapters, leading to clutter and compatibility issues. This docking device includes a connector that integrates a USB C-TYPE interface, enabling high-speed data transfer, power delivery, and support for various display and peripheral connections. The USB C-TYPE connector ensures compatibility with modern devices while maintaining a slim and efficient design. The docking device may also include additional features such as multiple output ports, power management circuitry, and mechanical locking mechanisms to secure the connection. The overall design aims to simplify connectivity while enhancing performance and reliability for users.
9. The docking device of claim 8 , wherein the UFS interface module and the connector are connected with each other through one of a TX1+/− lane and a TX2+/− lane and one of a RX1+/− lane and a RX2+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE.
A docking device is designed to facilitate data transfer and power delivery between a host device and peripheral devices using a USB Type-C interface. The device includes a Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interface module for high-speed data communication and a connector for interfacing with the host device. The UFS interface module and the connector are interconnected through specific lanes of the USB Type-C interface, including one of the TX1+/− or TX2+/− lanes for transmitting data and one of the RX1+/− or RX2+/− lanes for receiving data. This configuration ensures efficient data transfer while maintaining compatibility with USB Type-C standards. The docking device may also include additional components, such as a power delivery module for managing power distribution and a control module for coordinating data and power operations. The use of dedicated lanes for data transmission and reception optimizes performance and reduces signal interference, enhancing overall system reliability. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring high-speed data transfer and stable power delivery, such as docking stations, hubs, and other peripheral devices.
10. The docking device of claim 7 , wherein the SBU lane comprises a SBU1 lane and a SBU2 lane between the UFS interface module and the connector, and the docking device further comprises: a second switch between the UFS interface module and the connector, wherein the processor is configured to: in response to receiving the second signal, control the second switch to select one lane based on a changed insertion direction of the connector among the SBU1 lane and the SBU2 lane; transmit a second response signal indicating that the SBU lane has been switched in response to the second signal to the electronic device; and perform an initialization process of the addition memory and perform the data transmission with the electronic device through the UFS interface module.
This invention relates to a docking device for electronic devices, specifically addressing the challenge of dynamically adjusting signal paths based on connector insertion direction. The docking device includes a Universal Flash Storage (UFS) interface module, a connector for interfacing with an electronic device, and a processor. The device further comprises a Super Bus Unit (SBU) lane, which includes two sub-lanes (SBU1 and SBU2) between the UFS interface module and the connector. A switch is positioned between the UFS interface module and the connector to selectively route signals through either SBU1 or SBU2. The processor controls this switch in response to a second signal, which indicates a change in the connector's insertion direction. Upon receiving this signal, the processor selects the appropriate SBU lane (SBU1 or SBU2) based on the new insertion direction. The device then transmits a response signal to the electronic device confirming the lane switch and proceeds with initialization of an additional memory module. Data transmission between the docking device and the electronic device occurs via the UFS interface module. This design ensures reliable communication regardless of the connector's orientation, enhancing usability and compatibility.
11. The docking device of claim 7 , wherein the processor is configured to: detect that the addition memory is separated from the docking device; transmit, to the electronic device, a third signal indicating that the addition memory including the UFS interface module is separated; receive a third response signal in response to the third signal from the electronic device; and perform data transmission with the electronic device through the first interface module.
This invention relates to a docking device with a removable additional memory module, addressing the need for flexible and efficient data management between an electronic device and a docking station. The docking device includes a processor, a first interface module for connecting to an electronic device, and an additional memory module with a UFS (Universal Flash Storage) interface module. The processor detects when the additional memory is separated from the docking device and transmits a signal to the electronic device indicating this separation. Upon receiving a response from the electronic device, the processor resumes data transmission directly through the first interface module, bypassing the now-disconnected additional memory. This ensures seamless data transfer even when the removable memory is detached, maintaining system functionality without interruption. The docking device may also include a second interface module for connecting to the additional memory, allowing dynamic reconfiguration of data pathways based on the presence or absence of the removable module. The system optimizes data routing and ensures compatibility with various storage configurations, enhancing user experience and system reliability.
12. The docking device of claim 10 , wherein the first signal, the first response signal, the second signal, and the second response signal are transmitted through a D+/− lane of a USB C-TYPE.
A docking device is designed to facilitate communication between a host device and a peripheral device using a USB Type-C interface. The device addresses the challenge of ensuring reliable and efficient data transmission between connected devices, particularly in scenarios where multiple signals must be exchanged over a shared communication channel. The docking device includes a controller that generates and processes signals to establish and maintain communication links. Specifically, the controller transmits a first signal to a peripheral device and receives a first response signal in return. Similarly, the controller sends a second signal to the host device and receives a second response signal. These signals are transmitted through the D+/D- lane of a USB Type-C interface, which is a differential pair used for data communication. The docking device ensures proper synchronization and data integrity by managing these signal exchanges, allowing seamless interaction between the host and peripheral devices. The system may also include additional components, such as power management circuits, to support the overall functionality of the docking device. This approach enhances compatibility and performance in docking applications, particularly in environments where multiple devices are interconnected.
13. The electronic device of claim 2 , wherein the third lane comprises a D+/− lane of the USB C-TYPE.
The invention relates to electronic devices with enhanced data transfer capabilities, specifically addressing the need for improved signal integrity and compatibility in high-speed data transmission interfaces. The device includes a connector with multiple lanes for data transfer, where at least one lane is dedicated to a differential pair (D+/D-) of a USB Type-C interface. This lane is configured to support high-speed data transmission while maintaining signal integrity through proper shielding and impedance matching. The device may also include additional lanes for other data transfer protocols, such as PCIe or DisplayPort, allowing for versatile connectivity options. The USB Type-C lane ensures backward compatibility with existing USB standards while enabling faster data rates and more reliable connections. The design optimizes signal routing and minimizes electromagnetic interference, ensuring stable performance in various operating conditions. This configuration is particularly useful in portable devices where space is limited, and high-speed data transfer is critical. The invention improves upon existing solutions by integrating multiple data transfer protocols into a single connector, reducing the need for multiple ports and enhancing user convenience. The USB Type-C lane's differential pair ensures low-latency, high-bandwidth communication, making it suitable for applications requiring real-time data processing. The overall design aims to provide a robust, future-proof interface for electronic devices.
14. The docking device of claim 11 , wherein the third signal and the third response signal are transmitted through a D+/− lane of a USB C-TYPE.
A docking device is designed to facilitate communication between a host device and a peripheral device using a USB Type-C interface. The device addresses the challenge of efficiently transmitting data and control signals through the USB Type-C connection, particularly in scenarios where multiple signals must be managed simultaneously. The docking device includes a signal transmission mechanism that utilizes the D+/D- lanes of the USB Type-C interface to convey both data and control signals. Specifically, the device transmits a third signal and a third response signal through the D+/D- lanes, enabling bidirectional communication. This approach optimizes the use of the USB Type-C interface by leveraging its existing data lanes for additional signaling, thereby reducing the need for dedicated communication channels. The docking device may also include additional features such as power delivery, data routing, and protocol conversion to enhance compatibility with various peripheral devices. By integrating these functions, the docking device provides a versatile and efficient solution for connecting and managing multiple devices through a single USB Type-C port.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention. Click any code to explore related patents in that topic.
August 20, 2018
March 1, 2022
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.